Relativity: Solving Pion Homework Problem

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a positive pion (π+) traveling through a tube after being produced in a particle collision. The task is to determine the speed required for the pion to reach the end of the tube without decaying, given its average lifetime and rest energy. The discussion also touches on calculating the total energy of the pion at that speed.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the calculation of speed and total energy using relativistic equations. There are attempts to clarify the application of the total energy equation and the correct form of momentum in relativistic contexts.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on the need to use the correct relativistic momentum formula. There is acknowledgment of a mistake regarding the inclusion of the Lorentz factor (gamma) in calculations, leading to a resolution for one participant.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of a homework assignment, which may limit the information they can share and the methods they can use. There is an emphasis on showing work rather than just providing answers.

HelpPlease27
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Homework Statement


After being produced in a collision between elementary particles, a positive pion (π+) must travel down a 1.00 km -long tube to reach an experimental area. A π+ particle has an average lifetime (measured in its rest frame) of 2.60×10−8s; the π+ we are considering has this lifetime.
How fast must the π+ travel if it is not to decay before it reaches the end of the tube? (Since u will be very close to c, write u=(1−Δ)c and give your answer in terms of Δ rather than u.)
The π+ has a rest energy of 139.6 MeV. What is the total energy of the π+ at the speed calculated in part A?

Homework Equations


Δ t = Δt0 / sqrt(1-u^2/c^2)

E^2 = (mc^2)^2 + (pc)^2

The Attempt at a Solution


I got the correct answer for speed, the first part of the question. It's the second part I can't get to work. I used the total energy equation and my speed, which worked out to give me E = 197.4 MeV but this wasn't right. I'm not sure where I'm going wrong?
 
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HelpPlease27 said:
I used the total energy equation and my speed, which worked out to give me E = 197.4 MeV but this wasn't right. I'm not sure where I'm going wrong?
We will not be able to tell you this unless you actually show us what you did, not just try to describe it in words.
 
Orodruin said:
We will not be able to tell you this unless you actually show us what you did, not just try to describe it in words.

E^2 = (mc^2)^2 + (pc)^2
I used mc^2 = 139.6 MeV
I put p = mv so the pc = mvc but m = 139.6/c^2 and v = (1-Δ)c = (1-(3.04*10-5))c so pc = 139.6 MeV
So then E = sqrt(139.6^2 + 139.6^2) = 197.4 MeV
 
HelpPlease27 said:
I put p = mv
This is not the relativistic momentum. This relation is only valid at non-relativistic speeds.
 
Orodruin said:
This is not the relativistic momentum. This relation is only valid at non-relativistic speeds.

Yes, that makes sense. I forgot to include gamma. I got the correct answer now, thanks.
 

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